Basic Pathophysiology for Nurses

Course overview

Pathophysiology is the study of alterations in homeostasis, at the cellular level, as well as the biophysical effects of these alterations. Homeostasis is a steady state where body functions and physiological parameters are maintained without deviation. When deviations occur, then illness and disease follow. Stressors cause deviations in homeostasis, disrupting the normal steady state, and leading to illness. Medical conditions that may present when a patient's homeostasis is altered at the cellular level includes pneumonia, sepsis/shock, diabetes, COPD, cardiovascular disease, heart failure, hypertension, and pain. The goal of this course is to identify the pathology behind disease, with the intention of guiding treatment, intervention, and follow up. To return to homeostasis, interventions such as environmental, dietary and behavioral changes must happen. Medical intervention is also needed in many cases for a patient to return to homeostasis. Understanding the origins of common diseases and their signs and symptoms is the basis of choosing an effective response and intervention plan.